B.B. King’s death on May 14, 2015 at age 89 prompted global mourning and #BBKingRIP trending worldwide as musicians, presidents, and fans celebrated the blues legend’s 70-year career. Known as the “King of Blues,” B.B. King influenced every major rock and blues guitarist from Eric Clapton to John Mayer, and his
signature vibrato and “Lucille” guitar became synonymous with blues music.
The Blues Ambassador
B.B. King (Riley B. King) emerged from Mississippi Delta in the 1940s, bringing blues from juke joints to concert halls and arenas. His smooth singing, distinctive vibrato guitar technique, and 15,000+ performances across 70 years made him blues’ greatest ambassador. Songs like “The Thrill Is Gone” (1970 crossover hit), “Every Day I Have the Blues,” and “Three O’Clock Blues” became standards.
King’s guitar “Lucille” (named after a woman whose fight caused a fire at 1949 concert King risked his life to save the guitar from) became as famous as its owner. He played a Gibson ES-335 or ES-355 his entire career, the hollow-body’s warm tone perfect for his expressive style.
2015 Passing and Tributes
When B.B. King died in Las Vegas on May 14, 2015, #BBKingRIP trended globally. President Obama called him “the King of the Blues,” Eric Clapton posted tribute (“I can’t imagine life without him”), and Bonnie Raitt, Carlos Santana, and countless others shared memories.
The viewing in Las Vegas and funeral procession through Mississippi Delta drew thousands. King was buried in Indianola, Mississippi, his hometown where B.B. King Museum stands. The outpouring demonstrated blues’ enduring influence despite declining mainstream popularity.
Legacy and Influence
B.B. King won 15 Grammys, was inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1987), received Presidential Medal of Freedom (2006), and influenced virtually every blues and rock guitarist. His 1988 album King of the Blues introduced him to new generation, and his 2000 Riding with the King collaboration with Eric Clapton went triple platinum.
King performed until months before his death—over 250 concerts annually well into his 80s. His dedication to touring and blues preservation ensured the genre’s survival. While younger audiences discovered blues through white British rock bands (Stones, Clapton), King remained the source—authentic, generous with knowledge, and tireless performer.
Sources: NY Times B.B. King obituary, Rolling Stone tribute, Grammy Awards archive